Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Patricia De Lille, has said it may take up to four years to build back up the National Assembly in Parliament.
This comes after the National Assembly building in Parliament was set on fire by the allegedly accused Zandile Mafe in January of this year.
Also read: Alleged Parliament arsonist Zandile Mafe denied bail
The 49-year-old Zandile Mafe set off bombs inside the seat of government in the early hours of 2 January. However, Mafe has denied the accusations and his lawyers say he is being used as a scapegoat by a disgraced police force, desperate to redeem themselves after the incident as per report by, BBC.
According to the Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Patricia De Lille, to rebuild could cost more than R1,2 billion referred to by a development.
Another report by channelafrica states Parliament Spokesperson Moloto Mothapo confirmed technical assessments of the buildings gutted by fire have been completed that:
“Cost estimates for restoration have been quantified and it will cost $22.97 million for old assembly and $58.45 million for the new wing just for buildings, excluding furniture and information and communications technology for offices and committee rooms.
Also read:
Zandile Mafe officially charged for Parliament fire, heads to trial
Picture: Cape Town etc {Gallery}